Michigan football defense needs to shut down Bowling Green quarterback

The Michigan football defense has been impressive so far this year — when the starters are in, the Wolverines are yet to give up a point. In fact, even when the second and third-string guys hit the field, Michigan has allowed 10 points through two games thus far. Heading into this weekend’s matchup against Bowling Green football, the Wolverines need to do everything they can to limit a veteran, former Big Ten quarterback: Connor Bazelak.

Michigan football defense needs to show down Connor Bazelak

The Michigan football defense faced Connor Bazelak last fall during their back-and-forth win over the Indiana Hoosiers. When facing the Wolverines, Bazelak had the chance to throw the ball 49 times, totaling over 200 yards, a touchdown, and an interception. Despite a 10-10 halftime score, Michigan pulled away and eventually won, 31-10.

This weekend, Bazelak gets another shot at Michigan football — he is not the best quarterback that the Wolverines will face this year, yet he does bring some dangerous aspects to the table for a banged-up Wolverine secondary. Perhaps nothing is more daunting about this Bowling Green quarterback than his four previous seasons of college football experience — all of which were played in the SEC or Big Ten.

Bowling Green football may catch a break due to injuries

Right now, the Wolverines are still uncertain about having Will Johnson (starting cornerback), Makari Paige, and Rod Moore (both starting safeties) back for this weekend’s game. This means that, against a veteran QB who has seen Jesse Minter’s defense in action before, the Wolverines’ depth will be tested.

Now, this is not to say that Michigan football should fear the Bowling Green football offense at all — the Falcons are outmatched in size, speed, talent, and more. However, the Wolverines need to look to shut down this ex-Indiana and Missouri quarterback as early as possible.

More good news for Michigan football heading into Week 3?

Another positive sign for Michigan football is that Bazelak is not a mobile quarterback, and after last weekend’s incredible defensive line performance against UNLV, getting the 5th-year quarterback on the ground early and often could be the first step in a third-straight dominant victory for the Maize and Blue.

Regardless, this weekend’s game is Michigan’s final “preseason” game before Big Ten plays starts next weekend, so seeing some progress and fewer mistakes (there are already very few mistakes being made) would be a positive sign heading into the Rutgers game.

So far this year, Bowling Green quarterback Connor Bazelak has competed over 59% of his passes for 390 yards, three touchdowns, and three interceptions, with a passer rating of 134.0. His QBr of 60.4 ranks him 62nd nationally.

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